Shady lady: The best sun hats for women
Sun protection doesn’t get more stylish than this
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Whether you’re sailing the Mediterranean, indulging in some R&R in the Maldives or simply taking a stroll around Holland Park, no sun worshipper worth their salt should be seen without a stylish hat to avoid sun damage and score some serious style points. While sunglasses and potent sun creams (SPF50 is de rigueur these days) are certainly non-negotiables in your summer routine, the best sun hats go a long way in shielding your skin, eyes and scalp from the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays.
But let’s pause for a moment to clarify: if the word ‘hat’ tends to conjure images of over-the-top designs for special occasions, such as weddings or the races, these are not those. For SS24, hats are truly enjoying their moment in the sun (pardon the pun). On the runways brands as distinct as Jacquemus, Maison Margiela and Etro offered their take on the everyday sun hat. While Jacquemus’ signature wide-brimmed straw hats remain a firm favourite, Maison Margiela leaned into sculptural designs and Etro’s bucket hats harked back to the ‘90s. Elsewhere, celebrities have also endorsed a variety of sun hats – from the Princess of Wales’s elegant silhouettes to Beyoncé’s glamorous cowboy styles.
From oversized raffia designs to crocheted bucket hats, there’s a summer hat to suit every style. Whether you’re optimistically waiting for sun-drenched days in the UK or have a summer holiday planned, read on for our pick of the best sun hats to buy now and wear for years to come.
Jacquemus Le Bob Pesco bucket hat
Founder and creative director Simon Porte Jacquemus grew up among the South of France’s sunny vistas – so you can trust he knows a thing or two about chic summer style. Take, for example, this embroidered raffia hat designed to instantly transport you to the buzzy beach clubs of the Côte d’Azur.
Loewe x Paula's Ibiza raffia sun hat
You don’t have to be holidaying on the Balearic island that inspired Loewe x Paula’s Ibiza’s floppy sun hat to wear it, but we think it would make for a great backdrop. Woven from raffia and embellished with a leather logo plaque, wear it with a breezy sundress and beachy waves.
Brunello Cucinelli Monili-embellished straw sun hat
Artfully woven with tan straw and embellished with Monili beads, this wide-brimmed Brunello Cucinelli hat is as elegant as it comes. Wear yours with a sleek blowout and statement sunglasses.
Lack Of Colour raffia cowboy hat
If you’ve caught cowboy fashion fever this season, bring a Western edge to your summer looks with Lack Of Colour’s raffia cowboy hat. The seashell details will bring carefree beach vibes wherever you go.
Etro abstract-print bucket hat
A masterclass in dopamine dressing, Etro offers a bright bucket hat emblazoned with an abstract version of its signature paisley prints. Wear with a monochrome outfit to add a pop of colour or go all-out in the matching shirt.
Valentino Chevron 24 straw sun hat
Not one for in-your-face prints? Add a subtle infusion of colour with Valentino’s wide-brimmed straw hat adorned with a ladylike silk scarf. This is the best friend your summer dress collection has been crying out for.
Jacquemus Striped Artichaut Bucket Hat
A second nod to the French designer (and it was hard to narrow it down to just two), Jacquemus’ bucket hat features a relaxed frayed trim and perennially fashionable nautical stripes. It will fit right in from the beaches of Cannes to the Soho House pool.
Gucci bee-embellished boater
Summer weddings and garden parties on the horizon? Invest in a smart boater. This Gucci hat – woven from shiny straw that glitters in the sun and embellished with an elegant bow detailed with the Italian brand’s bee motif – will make for the perfect finishing touch to formal outfits.
Burberry denim bucket hat
For the ultimate cool-girl bucket hat, look to Burberry. This denim design, complete with contrast top-stitching and a modern reimagining of the historic knight emblem, is sure to be a summer staple for everything from weekend brunches to music festivals.
Eugenia Kim Cassidy straw hat
Eugenia Kim’s Cassidy hat is a great feminine option. The wide-brimmed straw hat is threaded with a striped satin ribbon perfect for tying into a neat bow under the chin or draping over loose curls.
Ultraviolhat crocheted bucket hat
Based on the Italian Riviera, founder Pasquale Putrino’s vibrant accessories are inspired by his mother’s intricate crochet techniques. This colourful bucket hat exemplifies the playful design language that has made the brand a cult favourite.
Carolina Herrera grosgrain-trimmed sun hat
With an array of bikinis, kaftans and wedge heels, you’ve got the basics of a chic cruise wardrobe covered. The finishing touch? This navy grosgrain-trimmed floppy straw hat, complete with elegant chin ties for windy evenings on the sun deck.
Alémais Gisela linen sun hat
Cut from breathable linen and printed with summery daisies and buttercups, Alémais’ Gisela sun hat is ideal for an afternoon in the garden. Alternatively, wear it with a maxi skirt and vibrant enamel jewellery for a romantic summer date.
Damson Madder striped bucket hat
North London-based brand Damson Madder offers playful collections made with ethical fabrics and manufacturing processes. Case in point, this striped bucket hat made in India from organic cotton and linen. Whether you’re headed to Brighton or Barcelona, you’re sure to turn heads in this.
Read more: Why a camp collar shirt is the epitome of casual summer style
